How to Choose the Right Lenses for Glasses: Types, Materials, and Coatings Explained

November 11, 2025

Understanding Different Lenses for Glasses

When it comes to eyewear, the focus is often on frame styles, colors, and trends. However, the unsung hero of any great pair of eyeglasses is undoubtedly the lenses. Selecting the right lenses for glasses can enhance your vision and provide comfort throughout the day. At Murray Hill Optical, a trusted name in eyewear, we understand the importance of lenses in correcting vision and enhancing your overall eyewear experience.

Types of Lenses

Choosing the right type of lens is crucial as it directly impacts your visual clarity and comfort. Here, we explore the most common types of lenses available.

Single Vision Lenses

Single vision lenses are the most straightforward and widely used lens type. They cater to individuals who need correction for one field of vision, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness. These lenses maintain the same power across the entire surface and are ideal for everyday tasks.

Bifocal Lenses

Bifocal lenses are designed for those who require correction for both distant and close-up tasks. Featuring two distinct sections, with the upper part dedicated to distance vision and the lower part for reading, bifocal lenses are practical for those experiencing age-related vision changes.

Progressive Lenses

Progressive lenses are often referred to as "no-line bifocals" due to their seamless transition between different lens powers. They offer a gradient of increasing lens strength from top to bottom, allowing for clear vision at all distances. This versatility makes them an excellent choice for individuals who need correction for multiple distances without the lines found in bifocals.

Trifocal Lenses

Trifocal lenses incorporate three lens areas: distance, intermediate, and near vision. These lenses are beneficial for tasks like computer work, where intermediate vision is critical. Although less popular due to the rise of progressive lenses, they still serve a specific niche.

Materials for Optical Lenses

Apart from lens types, selecting the right material is equally crucial. This choice affects the eyewear’s durability, weight, and thickness. Here’s a look at some common lens materials:

Plastic Lenses

Plastic lenses, or CR-39 lenses, are lightweight and offer excellent clarity. They are often more affordable, making them a popular choice for many. However, they may not be as impact-resistant as other options.

Polycarbonate Lenses

Polycarbonate lenses offer superior impact resistance, making them perfect for children’s eyewear and safety glasses. These lenses are lightweight and provide 100% UV protection, though they may scratch easier than other materials without a scratch-resistant coating.

High-Index Lenses

High-index lenses are designed for individuals with strong prescriptions. They are thinner and lighter than traditional lenses, providing comfort without compromising on style or lens strength. High-index lenses also offer a flatter curve, which can be more aesthetically pleasing.

Trivex Lenses

Trivex lenses combine the benefits of polycarbonate and high-index lenses, offering both durability and lightweight comfort. They provide exceptional optical clarity and are often recommended for rimless frames.

Essential Lens Coatings

Lens coatings are an important consideration when choosing eyewear, as they enhance lens performance and protection.

Anti-Reflective Coating

Anti-reflective (AR) coating minimizes reflections on the lens surface, improving both visual clarity and aesthetics. This coating is beneficial for night driving, reducing glare from headlights and street lights.

Scratch-Resistant Coating

While no lens is completely scratch-proof, a scratch-resistant coating toughens the lens surface, protecting it from everyday wear and tear. This feature is particularly advantageous for active individuals and children.

UV Protection Coating

Exposure to ultraviolet rays is harmful to eye health. UV protection coating blocks harmful rays, safeguarding your eyes during outdoor activities. While most plastic lenses come with inherent UV protection, this coating can enhance it further.

Blue Light Blocking Coating

In today’s digital age, blue light exposure from screens is unavoidable. Blue light blocking coating reduces eye strain and fatigue, making it ideal for those who spend extensive time in front of computers and smartphones.